There is bad news for folks who enjoyed last year’s spectacular fireworks display in Marion. It is quite possible that Marion will not have any fireworks this year, after fundraising efforts to pay for the July 4th event fell short of the $50,000 goal.
The deadline for donations is set for this Thursday, May 15, and Marion Recreation is still short $20,000.
But Administrative Assistant Donna Hemphill says there is still a glimmer of hope. With the threat of having to skip the fireworks this year upon us, she hopes residents will act fast to make a contribution in time.
“No amount is too small or too big,” said Hemphill. ”If you’ve been thinking about making a donation, now is the time to do it.”
If the $50,000 is not raised by the end of Thursday, area residents will have to seek out July 4th fireworks elsewhere.
Raising $30,000 of the goal is not too shabby, since fundraising began back in early November.
Although the fireworks themselves cost about $28,000 last year, there are added costs such as the required police and fire presence, the music, and the sound system, among other things.
“Last year we just beat it, right on the number,” said Hemphill. “It came in just under $50,000.
Hemphill said donations have come in from near and far, even as far away as Hawaii and Florida. She is still hopeful they can pull it off this year, because last year was an amazing show, she said, which the residents really enjoyed.
“All we can do is hope, and hope people will reach deep,” said Hemphill.
Extending the deadline for accepting donations is unlikely, since the event needs to go out to bid, and Hemphill said the money has to be in hand in order to move forward to that point. She said Marion Recreation would likely go before the Board of Selectmen during their May 20 meeting to look for a solution if the money is not raised in time.
“If we don’t have the money by the end of this Thursday, unfortunately, there won’t be any fireworks,” said Hemphill.
You can still make a donation until the end of the day Thursday. Come in with cash or check to the recreation office at 13 Atlantis Drive, or call the recreation office at 774-217-8355. You can also email to state your intention to donate at info@marionrecreation.com.
By Jean Perry
